1998 Ford Focus vs. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Ford Focus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Ford Focus would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta (140 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1998 Ford Focus. (128 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 254 kg more than 1998 Ford Focus. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 160 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Focus. (160 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Focus. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta has automatic transmission and 1998 Ford Focus has manual transmission. 1998 Ford Focus will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Ford Focus | 2012 Volkswagen Jetta | |
Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
Model | Focus | Jetta |
Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1988 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 128 HP | 140 HP |
Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 160 Nm | 320 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 1750 RPM |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.2 seconds | 9.5 seconds |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1146 kg | 1400 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4557 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1781 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1504 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2578 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |